Consumer-directed care is a service option under the Integrated Care Program. It will most likely be available sometime in 2012.

Here is how consumer-directed care works. Members, working with their care management team, develop a care plan that helps with their activities of daily living. These include support services, such as personal care or meal deliveries, that keep the member independent and living in their own home. The member or their representative recruits, hires, terminates and performs all duties of the employer. This also includes paying required state and federal taxes. To assist the member in this area, Aetna Better Health will retain the services of an employer agent who will be the actual employer of record.

Before consumer-directed services are provided, an Aetna Better Health care manager evaluates the member's independent living skills and needs. Together, the care manager and member agree upon a total number of personal assistance hours to be provided.

• > Eligibility criteria
• > Services covered
• > Responsibility of members and caregivers
• > State support departments

Consumer-directed services benefit members who have significant disabilities, who are working toward living independently. For more information call Aetna Better Health toll free at 1-866-212-2851.